Roberto Firmino hails ‘incredible’ Liverpool FC star

Roberto Firmino has lavished praise on Philippe Coutinho as he talked up his team-mates importance to Liverpool FC.

Coutinho’s name has not been far away from the headlines in recent months after he was heavily linked with a transfer to Barcelona last summer.

The 25-year-old was thought to be keen on a switch to Camp Nou but a move failed to materialise as Liverpool held firm and opted not to sell the talented playmaker.

Coutinho has made his return to the first team for the Reds in recent weeks under Jurgen Klopp, with the playmaker having scored four goals and made three assists in all competitions for Liverpool so far this season.

Firmino knows Coutinho well having played with him at both club and national level, and his compatriot has talked up his team-mates quality and importance to the Reds.

Speaking to the Independent, Firmino said: “Coutinho is a friend and also a great player.

“He’s got incredible passing ability; he knows how to put attackers in on goal.”

Firmino also claimed that he is suited to the English game as he continues to develop under Jurgen Klopp at Anfield.

He continued: “I think my game is suited to it [English football] because I’m fast and I know how to use my strength.

“My team-mates play an important part in that, because we seek to complement each other’s games.”

Liverpool return to Premier League action this weekend when they host Southampton at Anfield as they look to continue their push up the table.

The Reds were 4-1 winners over West Ham United at the London Stadium before the international break.